National Counselor Exam (NCE)

What is the behavior outcome of positive reinforcement?

1. Increases behavior by removing a reinforcer

2. Decreases behavior by adding a reinforcer

3. Decreases behavior by removing a reinforcer

4. Increases behavior by adding a reinforcer

The correct answer is: Increases behavior by adding a reinforcer

Positive reinforcement is a concept in behavioral psychology that refers to the process of increasing the likelihood of a desired behavior by introducing a positive stimulus after that behavior occurs. When a behavior is followed by a pleasant outcome or reward, it strengthens that behavior, making it more likely to happen again in the future. In this case, the outcome of positive reinforcement specifically involves adding a reinforcer following a behavior, which is why the correct answer states that it increases behavior by adding a reinforcer. For instance, if a student receives praise for completing their homework, this positive feedback acts as a reinforcer that encourages them to continue completing their assignments. The other options would reflect different behavioral outcomes, such as negative reinforcement, where the removal of an unpleasant stimulus increases a behavior, or punishment, which decreases a behavior by adding an unpleasant stimulus or removing a pleasant one. Understanding positive reinforcement is essential for effective behavioral modification techniques in various settings, such as education, therapy, and training.